High-Entropy Symbol Generator

ABSTRACT: We discuss the principles of a High-Entropy Randomness
Generator (also called a Hardware Random Number Generator,
or True Random Number Generator) that
is suitable for a wide range of applications, including cryptography
and other high-stakes adversarial applications. It harvests entropy
from physical processes, and uses that entropy efficiently. The
hash saturation principle is used to distill the data,
resulting in virtually 100% entropy density. This is calculated, not
statistically estimated, and is provably correct under mild
assumptions. In contrast to a Pseudo-Random Number Generator, it has
no internal state to worry about, and does not depend on unprovable
assumptions about ``one-way functions''. We also describe a low-cost
high-performance implementation, using the computer's audio I/O
system.

You can view the full paper,
which covers the theoretical principles and engineering features,
including installation instructions.

The code is in "beta" status. People are using it. There are no
open bug reports.

Request: I would like to be able to ship configuration and
calibration info for a wider range of soundcards. Therefore: If you
calibrate a card, please send me <jsd@av8n.com> the resulting .ctl
file, and the values for the -Q -R -B and -K settings.